William D. Ferguson

Dr. William D. Ferguson, a distinguished legal scholar and devoted educator, left an indelible mark on the Emory Law School community and the field of law as a whole. Born on July 31, 1928, in Shinglehouse, Pennsylvania, he dedicated his life to the pursuit of knowledge, excellence in teaching, and making a positive impact on the lives of his students.

After earning his B.A. degree from Lebanon Valley College in 1949, Dr. Ferguson continued his academic journey at Cornell University Law School, where he obtained his J.D. in 1955. Recognizing his passion for legal education, he furthered his studies and received the prestigious S.J.D. from the University of Virginia Law School in1975.

Dr. Ferguson began his legal career as an Assistant Attorney General in the New York State Law Department before entering private practice in Albany, New York. In 1962, he joined the faculty of the University of South Dakota Law School, where he honed his teaching skills and contributed to legal scholarship. A year later, in 1963, Dr. Ferguson joined the esteemed faculty of Emory Law School, where he would make an enduring contribution.

Throughout his tenure at Emory Law School, Dr. Ferguson’s passion for teaching was evident in his commitment to his students and his vast knowledge of the law. He taught a wide range of subjects, including Civil Procedure, Conflicts, Federal Jurisdiction, and Trial Advocacy, and he imparted his expertise to generations of aspiring lawyers. Known for his demanding yet caring approach, Dr. Ferguson inspired both fear and love among his students and colleagues.

Even after attaining Emeritus status in 1998, Dr. Ferguson continued to be an integral part of the Emory Law School community. His dedication and commitment to the institution led him to establish a scholarship in 1998, a testament to his unwavering belief in the transformative power of education and his desire to support future generations of legal scholars.

Dr. Ferguson’s contributions extended beyond the classroom. He garnered a national reputation as a labor arbitrator, further solidifying his expertise and influence in the field. In recognition of his exceptional contributions to legal education and scholarship, he was awarded the Distinguished Emeritus Faculty Award by the Emeritus College of Emory University in January 2006. He passed away two months later.